Improv YakSun, 08 Oct 2017 22:29:11 +0000Sun, 08 Oct 2017 22:31:40 +0000Libsyn WebEngine 2.0http://improvyak.libsyn.com/podcast
enhttp://improvyak.libsyn.com/podcastimprovyak@gmail.com (improvyak@gmail.com)http://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/b/c/5/4/bc543a2912398a08/ImprovYakFullSizeSpelledCorrectly.pngImprov YakCarla Cackowskichat,comedy,conversation,improv,improvisation,yaknoimprovyak@gmail.comepisodic#54_Jason Shotts_OwnershipSun, 08 Oct 2017 22:29:11 +0000In Episode 54 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with her pal, Jason Shotts. They talk about "Ownership" in improv and Jason gives Carla so many new great teaching and coaching ideas that her brain melts mid-conversation.]]>In Episode 54 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with her pal, Jason Shotts. They talk about "Ownership" in improv and Jason gives Carla so many new great teaching and coaching ideas that her brain melts mid-conversation.]]>47:50no#53_Patricia Villetto_Don't be an A**holeSun, 18 Jun 2017 19:27:56 +0000In Episode 53 of Improv Yak, Carla chats with her pal, writer and improviser, Patricia Villetto. They talk about Patricia's experience using her improv skills in a professional writer's room, as well as the different tools she picked up from all the various comedy schools with which she has studied and performed. They also have a pretty real convo about how they feel about short form improv. They'll do it! If they have to.]]>In Episode 53 of Improv Yak, Carla chats with her pal, writer and improviser, Patricia Villetto. They talk about Patricia's experience using her improv skills in a professional writer's room, as well as the different tools she picked up from all the various comedy schools with which she has studied and performed. They also have a pretty real convo about how they feel about short form improv. They'll do it! If they have to.]]>33:31no#52_Derek Waters_Conversation!Fri, 09 Jun 2017 18:19:12 +0000In Episode 52 of Improv Yak, Carla sits down with the creator of Drunk History, Derek Waters. They chat about his improv beginnings as a student in Toronto and how Chris Farley has long been an inspiration. Then they improvise one of Carla's favorite improv scenes she's done on the podcast yet! Read more at http://improvyak.libsyn.com/#WWxIqc3Ib8zQU6lw.99]]>In Episode 52 of Improv Yak, Carla sits down with the creator of Drunk History, Derek Waters. They chat about his improv beginnings as a student in Toronto and how Chris Farley has long been an inspiration. Then they improvise one of Carla's favorite improv scenes she's done on the podcast yet! Read more at http://improvyak.libsyn.com/#WWxIqc3Ib8zQU6lw.99]]>39:25no#51_Craig Cackowski_We're Back! and Festivals_Improv YakFri, 02 Jun 2017 20:22:26 +0000Season three of Improv Yak begins with Craig Cackowski returning as co-host. We discuss why Carla took a break from Improv Yak for a while, as well as go through the list of festivals she and Craig have performed in over the past year and a half.]]>Season three of Improv Yak begins with Craig Cackowski returning as co-host. We discuss why Carla took a break from Improv Yak for a while, as well as go through the list of festivals she and Craig have performed in over the past year and a half.]]>01:23:00no#50_Kevin Crowley_Ensemble LIVE EDITION_Improv YakSat, 22 Oct 2016 15:44:10 +0000In the 50th episode of "Improv Yak", Carla shares a conversation she had with improviser Kevin Crowley at the Cincinnati Improv Festival in September. They tackle ensemble and - HEY! - this is our first live episode in front of an audience!]]>In the 50th episode of "Improv Yak", Carla shares a conversation she had with improviser Kevin Crowley at the Cincinnati Improv Festival in September. They tackle ensemble and - HEY! - this is our first live episode in front of an audience!]]>55:14no#49_Angela Getz_Rediscovering Your Voice_Improv YakFri, 21 Oct 2016 21:01:38 +0000In Episode 49 of "Improv Yak", Carla chats with former student and Second City Hollywood graduate, Angela Getz. They discuss how improv helped Angela rediscover her voice after enduring a traumatic situation and her journey towards healing and becoming a comedic giant amongst her peers (Carla's words). ]]>In Episode 49 of "Improv Yak", Carla chats with former student and Second City Hollywood graduate, Angela Getz. They discuss how improv helped Angela rediscover her voice after enduring a traumatic situation and her journey towards healing and becoming a comedic giant amongst her peers (Carla's words). ]]>50:38no#48_Jay Sukow_There's no "I" in Improv_Improv YakSun, 16 Oct 2016 20:33:13 +0000On Episode number forty eight of "Improv Yak", Carla yak's with long time improviser and improv teacher, Jay Sukow. They focus on the ensemble and Jay throws down a couple sports metaphors that Carla does her best to keep up with!]]>On Episode number forty eight of "Improv Yak", Carla yak's with long time improviser and improv teacher, Jay Sukow. They focus on the ensemble and Jay throws down a couple sports metaphors that Carla does her best to keep up with!]]>51:31no#47_Paul Vaillancourt_The Triangle of the Scene_Improv YakTue, 27 Sep 2016 18:19:41 +0000In Episode #47 of Improv Yak, Carla shares a conversation that she had with improviser, teacher, and author, Paul Vaillancourt. They discuss Paul's book on his improv philosophy, "The Triangle of the Scene" (available on iBooks and Amazon Kindle), as well as his one man improv show, "Man Vs. Movie". For an extra bonus, check out Carla's "Improv Tip" on Paul's youtube channel PVImprov. And while you're there, check out all of his other Improv Tips too!]]>In Episode #47 of Improv Yak, Carla shares a conversation that she had with improviser, teacher, and author, Paul Vaillancourt. They discuss Paul's book on his improv philosophy, "The Triangle of the Scene" (available on iBooks and Amazon Kindle), as well as his one man improv show, "Man Vs. Movie". For an extra bonus, check out Carla's "Improv Tip" on Paul's youtube channel PVImprov. And while you're there, check out all of his other Improv Tips too!]]>47:26no#45_Julie Brister_Teaching Improv_Improv YakThu, 22 Sep 2016 22:05:04 +0000In Episode 45 of Improv Yak, Carla shares a recent conversation she had with LA based improviser and teacher, Julie Brister. Carla and Julie talk about Julie's start at UCB in New York, how improv has changed and grown since then, as well as Julie's take on teaching improvisation. Julie and Carla hadn't seen each other in a while when they taped this episode and they ended their Yak by improvising a scene between two friends who hadn't seen each other in a while either!]]>In Episode 45 of Improv Yak, Carla shares a recent conversation she had with LA based improviser and teacher, Julie Brister. Carla and Julie talk about Julie's start at UCB in New York, how improv has changed and grown since then, as well as Julie's take on teaching improvisation. Julie and Carla hadn't seen each other in a while when they taped this episode and they ended their Yak by improvising a scene between two friends who hadn't seen each other in a while either!]]>01:06:21no#44_Jaclynn Cherry_Camp Improv Utopia Yosemite_Part 3Fri, 16 Sep 2016 19:28:45 +0000In Episode #44 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Detroit improviser Jaclynn Cherry. They talk about the Detroit Improv Fest and what it is about improv that Jaclynn finds so fun. Then they improvise a scene where Carla plays a parental figure (this keeps happening to them in scenes they do together!). ]]>In Episode #44 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Detroit improviser Jaclynn Cherry. They talk about the Detroit Improv Fest and what it is about improv that Jaclynn finds so fun. Then they improvise a scene where Carla plays a parental figure (this keeps happening to them in scenes they do together!). ]]>28:51no#43_Neil Curran_Camp Improv Utopia Yosemite_Part 2Fri, 16 Sep 2016 19:06:52 +0000In Episode #43 of Improv Yak, Carla shares the second part in a three part series of interviews she did with improvisers at Camp Improv Utopia Yosemite. The second part features improv teacher and performer, Neil Curran. Neil is from Dublin and has traveled the world performing his improv show, "Neil + 1". He is also the founder and director of Improv Fest Ireland and he and Carla yak about all of those things, plus the current culture of improv in Ireland.

]]>In Episode #43 of Improv Yak, Carla shares the second part in a three part series of interviews she did with improvisers at Camp Improv Utopia Yosemite. The second part features improv teacher and performer, Neil Curran. Neil is from Dublin and has traveled the world performing his improv show, "Neil + 1". He is also the founder and director of Improv Fest Ireland and he and Carla yak about all of those things, plus the current culture of improv in Ireland.

]]>38:15no#42_Nick Armstrong_Camp Improv Utopia Yosemite_Part 1Fri, 16 Sep 2016 18:41:31 +0000In Episode #42 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with her old friend, Nick Armstrong. Nick is an alumni of Sunday Company at The Groundlings, founder of Camp Improv Utopia, and the new AD at M.i. Westside Comedy Theater in Santa Monica. They yak about genre improv, creating a summer camp for adult improvisers, and improvise a scene based on the suggestion, "black hole". ]]>In Episode #42 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with her old friend, Nick Armstrong. Nick is an alumni of Sunday Company at The Groundlings, founder of Camp Improv Utopia, and the new AD at M.i. Westside Comedy Theater in Santa Monica. They yak about genre improv, creating a summer camp for adult improvisers, and improvise a scene based on the suggestion, "black hole". ]]>50:02no#41_Monika Smith_Humanity in Improvisation_Improv YakTue, 30 Aug 2016 17:52:10 +0000In episode 41 of Improv Yak, Carla and Monika Smith discuss the idea of the human experience in improvisation. They talk about Monika’s recent travels to China to help set up a curriculum for improv and sketch comedy at a new school, as well as their experiences being female improvisers and teachers in the community. Then they improvise a complicated mother-daughter scene set in a movie theater!]]>In episode 41 of Improv Yak, Carla and Monika Smith discuss the idea of the human experience in improvisation. They talk about Monika’s recent travels to China to help set up a curriculum for improv and sketch comedy at a new school, as well as their experiences being female improvisers and teachers in the community. Then they improvise a complicated mother-daughter scene set in a movie theater!]]>51:15no#40_Kiernan Shipka & Isaac Spector_Improv Friends!_Improv YakThu, 18 Aug 2016 00:00:00 +0000In episode number forty of Improv Yak, Carla chats with teenage improvisers Kiernan Shipka and Isaac Spector about their experience performing in Detention Hall (AKA "Teen Troupe") at The Second City, as well as the friendship they've established over the past few years as a result of this performance experience. ]]>In episode number forty of Improv Yak, Carla chats with teenage improvisers Kiernan Shipka and Isaac Spector about their experience performing in Detention Hall (AKA "Teen Troupe") at The Second City, as well as the friendship they've established over the past few years as a result of this performance experience. ]]>49:13no#39_Brian O'Connell_Position Play_Improv YakMon, 08 Aug 2016 22:28:12 +0000In Episode 39 of Improv Yak, Carla chats with LA improviser and teacher, Brian O'Connell, about "Position Play" and "Deconstruction". Get out your notebooks and pens, this is one to take notes on!]]>In Episode 39 of Improv Yak, Carla chats with LA improviser and teacher, Brian O'Connell, about "Position Play" and "Deconstruction". Get out your notebooks and pens, this is one to take notes on!]]>54:56no#38_Nancy Hayden_Part 2_Improv YakSun, 31 Jul 2016 17:19:08 +0000In Episode #38 of Improv Yak, Carla picks up her previous conversation (#36) with good friend and fellow improviser, Nancy Hayden. They chat about Nancy's experience as a writer on the new Comedy Central show "Detroiters", and yak about all things improv and Detroit related. Both Nancy and Carla will be at the Detroit Improv Festival this August. Go to detroitimprovfestival.org to get tickets to shows and workshops.]]>In Episode #38 of Improv Yak, Carla picks up her previous conversation (#36) with good friend and fellow improviser, Nancy Hayden. They chat about Nancy's experience as a writer on the new Comedy Central show "Detroiters", and yak about all things improv and Detroit related. Both Nancy and Carla will be at the Detroit Improv Festival this August. Go to detroitimprovfestival.org to get tickets to shows and workshops.]]>38:11no#37_Mark McConville_Improv in Different Forms_Improv YakTue, 19 Jul 2016 16:55:55 +000001:05:07no#36_Nancy Hayden_Part 1_Improv YakThu, 07 Jul 2016 19:05:36 +000021:45no#35_Xchel Hernandez_Transitions_Improv YakMon, 27 Jun 2016 21:51:21 +0000In Episode #35, Carla yaks with Xchel Hernandez on his transition from the Phoenix to Los Angeles improv scene. They talk about feedback, failures and successes, and get into the nitty gritty of studying at iO West and The Second City in Hollywood.

Xchel Hernandez is a multi-cultural improvisor currently residing in Hollywood, CA. He has performed on several festivals across The United States including Out of Bounds, The Phoenix Improv Festival, The Hollywood Improv Festival, Duke City Improv Festival, and many more. In 2014, he co-created the popular nationally touring Dissecting The Set. A monthly show that engages audiences in an interactive form of impromptu comedy. Xchel is a featured master of ceremonies in many public and private events. He has received several awards in the field of comedy including a Best of the Festival in Phoenix, AZ. Xchel has attended schools in Arizona, Indiana, California, Illinois, and Texas. While attending Arizona State University, he produced many shows at The Torch Theatre theatre culminating in his graduation with a Bachelors Degree in Fine arts. In addition to his studies, Xchel has traveled to many countries including Europe, Mexico, and Central America. He loves to use comedy to poke fun at the seriousness of life.

]]>In Episode #35, Carla yaks with Xchel Hernandez on his transition from the Phoenix to Los Angeles improv scene. They talk about feedback, failures and successes, and get into the nitty gritty of studying at iO West and The Second City in Hollywood.

Xchel Hernandez is a multi-cultural improvisor currently residing in Hollywood, CA. He has performed on several festivals across The United States including Out of Bounds, The Phoenix Improv Festival, The Hollywood Improv Festival, Duke City Improv Festival, and many more. In 2014, he co-created the popular nationally touring Dissecting The Set. A monthly show that engages audiences in an interactive form of impromptu comedy. Xchel is a featured master of ceremonies in many public and private events. He has received several awards in the field of comedy including a Best of the Festival in Phoenix, AZ. Xchel has attended schools in Arizona, Indiana, California, Illinois, and Texas. While attending Arizona State University, he produced many shows at The Torch Theatre theatre culminating in his graduation with a Bachelors Degree in Fine arts. In addition to his studies, Xchel has traveled to many countries including Europe, Mexico, and Central America. He loves to use comedy to poke fun at the seriousness of life.

]]>45:09no#34_Mike Betette_Improv Teams_Improv YakMon, 13 Jun 2016 17:59:28 +0000In episode number 34 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with the artistic director of Westside Comedy Theater in Santa Monica, Mike Betette. They discuss how Mike puts together teams at his theater, as well as the skill set he's looking for in an improviser auditioning for a team. Then they improvise a scene inspired by the word, "MISSING!"]]>In episode number 34 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with the artistic director of Westside Comedy Theater in Santa Monica, Mike Betette. They discuss how Mike puts together teams at his theater, as well as the skill set he's looking for in an improviser auditioning for a team. Then they improvise a scene inspired by the word, "MISSING!"]]>38:36no#33_Colleen Doyle_The Why_Improv YakMon, 30 May 2016 23:08:49 +0000In Episode 33 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Co-Artistic Director of iO West, Colleen Doyle about "The Why" in improvisation. In this honest and informative conversation, they also touch upon the difficulties of being people pleasers and how giving and taking notes in a two person show can get tricky. ]]>In Episode 33 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Co-Artistic Director of iO West, Colleen Doyle about "The Why" in improvisation. In this honest and informative conversation, they also touch upon the difficulties of being people pleasers and how giving and taking notes in a two person show can get tricky. ]]>48:35no#32_Stephen C. James_Teaching Youth Improv_Improv YakWed, 18 May 2016 05:07:23 +0000In Episode 32 of Improv Yak, Carla sits down with long time improviser and teacher Stephen C. James and yaks about his experience teaching kids and teenagers.]]>In Episode 32 of Improv Yak, Carla sits down with long time improviser and teacher Stephen C. James and yaks about his experience teaching kids and teenagers.]]>59:36no#31_Jenna Jolovitz_Make a Choice, Add Energy_Improv YakWed, 11 May 2016 16:06:11 +0000In Episode 31 of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Second City alumna and teacher Jenna Jolovitz. They yak about Jenna's philosophy on making a bold choice and applying energy in a scene. They also discuss how a skiing experience humbled and reminded Jenna about what it's like to be a student. And then things get all oatsy-crunchy. ]]>In Episode 31 of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Second City alumna and teacher Jenna Jolovitz. They yak about Jenna's philosophy on making a bold choice and applying energy in a scene. They also discuss how a skiing experience humbled and reminded Jenna about what it's like to be a student. And then things get all oatsy-crunchy. ]]>42:49no#30_Season Two Premiere_Chad Damiani_Idiot Work_Improv YakWed, 04 May 2016 18:27:56 +0000In the season two premiere of Improv Yak, Carla talks with Los Angeles improviser Chad Damiani on his use of clowning and idiot work in improvisation. They also yak about tearing down the fourth wall between audience and improviser and discuss Chad's introduction to improvisation via wrestling!]]>In the season two premiere of Improv Yak, Carla talks with Los Angeles improviser Chad Damiani on his use of clowning and idiot work in improvisation. They also yak about tearing down the fourth wall between audience and improviser and discuss Chad's introduction to improvisation via wrestling!]]>01:03:30no#29_Season One Wrap Up with Craig Cackowski_Improv YakMon, 04 Apr 2016 06:01:13 +0000In Episode 29 of Improv Yak, Carla hands over hosting duties to Craig Cackowski as they yak about her experience hosting season one. Carla edited nothing in this episode. Not. One. Thing.]]>In Episode 29 of Improv Yak, Carla hands over hosting duties to Craig Cackowski as they yak about her experience hosting season one. Carla edited nothing in this episode. Not. One. Thing.]]>01:02:41no#28_Jaime Moyer_Ladies & Laughs_Improv YakTue, 22 Mar 2016 01:56:29 +0000In Episode 28 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with LA based improviser and teacher, Jaime Moyer, about her take on being a female improviser and the importance of making bold initiations. Then Carla and Jaime improvise a scene as two men and Jaime makes Carla laugh so hard she cries.]]>In Episode 28 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with LA based improviser and teacher, Jaime Moyer, about her take on being a female improviser and the importance of making bold initiations. Then Carla and Jaime improvise a scene as two men and Jaime makes Carla laugh so hard she cries.]]>47:30no#27_Monique Madrid & Corey Rittmaster_Improv, Sketch, & Cruise Ships!Wed, 09 Mar 2016 19:26:54 +0000In Episode 27 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with her improv buddies Monique Madrid and Corey Rittmaster about performing improv and sketch comedy on cruise ships. They discuss what they did on the ship in between shows, as well as give advice on avoiding the buffet as much as possible.]]>In Episode 27 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with her improv buddies Monique Madrid and Corey Rittmaster about performing improv and sketch comedy on cruise ships. They discuss what they did on the ship in between shows, as well as give advice on avoiding the buffet as much as possible.]]>01:24:40no#26_Drew Coolidge_"Theme" In Improvisation_Improv YakFri, 04 Mar 2016 23:15:45 +0000In Episode 26 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with improviser Drew Coolidge about his different ways of exploring “theme” in improvisation. They also chat about Drew’s experience on Harold teams at iO West and UCB, as well as a short term correspondence he had early on in his career with improv guru and mentor, Dave Pasquesi.

Drew Coolidge is a member of the iO West Harold team MAX as well as one half of the improv duo Ranger Danger and the Danger Ranger. He has performed for the last 13 years and taught improvisation all across the US, from Pennsylvania to Texas, Utah to Alaska. He has hosted videos for New Media Rockstars on YouTube and his writing has been featured on sites like CollegeHumor and Higgs Weldon.

]]>In Episode 26 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with improviser Drew Coolidge about his different ways of exploring “theme” in improvisation. They also chat about Drew’s experience on Harold teams at iO West and UCB, as well as a short term correspondence he had early on in his career with improv guru and mentor, Dave Pasquesi.

Drew Coolidge is a member of the iO West Harold team MAX as well as one half of the improv duo Ranger Danger and the Danger Ranger. He has performed for the last 13 years and taught improvisation all across the US, from Pennsylvania to Texas, Utah to Alaska. He has hosted videos for New Media Rockstars on YouTube and his writing has been featured on sites like CollegeHumor and Higgs Weldon.

]]>55:22no#25_Charity Miller_Los Angeles Improv Schools Part 2_Improv YakThu, 25 Feb 2016 16:42:47 +0000In Episode 25 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with writer and improviser Charity Miller about the different improv schools she has studied and performed at in Los Angeles. They also talk about how improvisation has influenced Charity's writing technique. ]]>In Episode 25 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with writer and improviser Charity Miller about the different improv schools she has studied and performed at in Los Angeles. They also talk about how improvisation has influenced Charity's writing technique. ]]>39:49no#24_Pepper Berry_Los Angeles Improv Schools Part 1_Improv YakThu, 18 Feb 2016 23:49:52 +0000In episode 24 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Los Angeles based improviser Pepper Berry about the assorted tools he picked up from studying and performing at a variety of LA's improv schools and theaters. Then they go to jury duty! (In an improv scene.)]]>In episode 24 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Los Angeles based improviser Pepper Berry about the assorted tools he picked up from studying and performing at a variety of LA's improv schools and theaters. Then they go to jury duty! (In an improv scene.)]]>41:35no#23_Bob Dassie and Stephnie Weir_Two Person Improv_Improv YakThu, 11 Feb 2016 17:19:24 +0000In episode 23 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Bob Dassie and Stephnie Weir about two person improvisation. They lay out what a Weirdass structure looks like on stage and discuss the idea of challenging each other and themselves after years of performing together.]]>In episode 23 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Bob Dassie and Stephnie Weir about two person improvisation. They lay out what a Weirdass structure looks like on stage and discuss the idea of challenging each other and themselves after years of performing together.]]>01:17:01no#22_Chris McGowan_Supporting the Ensemble_Improv YakThu, 04 Feb 2016 17:20:44 +0000In episode 22 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Los Angeles improviser Chris McGowan about his thoughts on supporting the ensemble in improvisation. They also talk about the different ways "success" can be interpreted in regards to making a house team and they improvise a scene in the style of Doctor Who!]]>In episode 22 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Los Angeles improviser Chris McGowan about his thoughts on supporting the ensemble in improvisation. They also talk about the different ways "success" can be interpreted in regards to making a house team and they improvise a scene in the style of Doctor Who!]]>01:02:56no#21_Deanna Moffitt_Improv as a Life Skill_Improv YakWed, 27 Jan 2016 23:15:40 +0000In episode 21 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Los Angeles based improviser and Life Coach, Deanna Moffitt. They talk about the similarities between the feelings you have when falling in love and the feelings you have when improvising, as well as how the philosophy of "yes and" can change your life, and maybe one day, the world!]]>In episode 21 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Los Angeles based improviser and Life Coach, Deanna Moffitt. They talk about the similarities between the feelings you have when falling in love and the feelings you have when improvising, as well as how the philosophy of "yes and" can change your life, and maybe one day, the world!]]>35:21no#20_Celeste Pechous_Teaching Improv to Senior Citizens_Improv YakWed, 20 Jan 2016 22:26:57 +0000In Episode #20 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with LA Improviser and Teacher, Celeste Pechous, about her recent experiences teaching improvisation at a Retirement Center. They also discuss how improvisation has inspired Celeste in both her professional and personal lives.]]>In Episode #20 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with LA Improviser and Teacher, Celeste Pechous, about her recent experiences teaching improvisation at a Retirement Center. They also discuss how improvisation has inspired Celeste in both her professional and personal lives.]]>46:45no#19_Domeka Parker_Portland Improv Scene Part 3_Improv YakWed, 13 Jan 2016 18:14:43 +0000In Episode 19, Carla wraps up her Portland series by sitting down for a yak with Brody Theater's Artistic Director, Domeka Parker. They discuss Sound Improv and briefly touch upon the importance of a good cup of Portland coffee.]]>In Episode 19, Carla wraps up her Portland series by sitting down for a yak with Brody Theater's Artistic Director, Domeka Parker. They discuss Sound Improv and briefly touch upon the importance of a good cup of Portland coffee.]]>25:15no#18_Nicholas Kessler_Portland Improv Scene Part 2_Improv YakWed, 06 Jan 2016 17:59:59 +0000In Episode 18 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Nicholas Kessler, one of The Liberator’s, Portland’s longest running improv group.]]>In Episode 18 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Nicholas Kessler, one of The Liberator’s, Portland’s longest running improv group.]]>37:43no#17_Stacey Hallal_Portland Improv Scene Part 1_Improv YakWed, 23 Dec 2015 19:30:31 +0000In episode number seventeen of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with the Artistic Director of Curious Comedy Theater, Stacey Hallal. They discuss the Portland improv scene, CORE (characterization, objective, relationship, environment), and improvise a scene as father and son.]]>In episode number seventeen of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with the Artistic Director of Curious Comedy Theater, Stacey Hallal. They discuss the Portland improv scene, CORE (characterization, objective, relationship, environment), and improvise a scene as father and son.]]>48:36no#16_Marc Warzecha_Coaching, Teaching, & Directing Improv_Improv YakMon, 14 Dec 2015 20:13:32 +0000In Episode 16 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Marc Warzecha about the different approaches he takes to teaching improv, coaching improv, and directing sketch shows through improvisation. They also speak about Marc’s love of political satire, his improv group with his buddies from Detroit (313), and challenging himself to be okay with failing. OH, and Viola Spolin!]]>In Episode 16 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Marc Warzecha about the different approaches he takes to teaching improv, coaching improv, and directing sketch shows through improvisation. They also speak about Marc’s love of political satire, his improv group with his buddies from Detroit (313), and challenging himself to be okay with failing. OH, and Viola Spolin!]]>01:05:34no#15_Paul F. Tompkins_Listening_Improv YakWed, 09 Dec 2015 06:10:20 +0000In Episode 15 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Paul F. Tompkins about his heightened listening skills, his comedic influences, and his desire to stay present and live in the moment both onstage and off.]]>In Episode 15 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Paul F. Tompkins about his heightened listening skills, his comedic influences, and his desire to stay present and live in the moment both onstage and off.]]>01:28:00no#14_Ithamar Enriquez_Playing the Silence_Improv YakMon, 07 Dec 2015 17:21:41 +0000In Episode 14 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Ithamar Enriquez, an improviser and solo performer in Los Angeles. They talk about playing the silence of a scene and then improvise a scene about two teens on a date in the backseat of a car. Also, Muppets are discussed. MUPPETS.]]>In Episode 14 of Improv Yak, Carla yaks with Ithamar Enriquez, an improviser and solo performer in Los Angeles. They talk about playing the silence of a scene and then improvise a scene about two teens on a date in the backseat of a car. Also, Muppets are discussed. MUPPETS.]]>54:15no#13_Improv Students: The BeginningFri, 04 Dec 2015 19:30:24 +0000In Episode #13, Carla yaks with four different students at the beginning of their improv studies. ]]>In Episode #13, Carla yaks with four different students at the beginning of their improv studies. ]]>44:19no#12_Kat Smith_Emerging Improv Communities: Cincinnati_Improv YakWed, 02 Dec 2015 17:16:23 +0000In Episode 12 of Improv Yak, Carla talks improv with co-director of OTRimprov in Cincinnati, Kat Smith.]]>In Episode 12 of Improv Yak, Carla talks improv with co-director of OTRimprov in Cincinnati, Kat Smith.]]>45:25no#11_Dwayne Colbert_Directing Improvisers_Improv YakThu, 26 Nov 2015 17:24:37 +0000In Episode #11 of Improv Yak, Carla sits down with her friend Dwayne Colbert for a conversation about directing improvisers. They also discuss auditioning for a Nerdist House Team, diversity in the Los Angeles comedy scene, and then Carla goes blue in their improv scene (these things happen sometimes).]]>In Episode #11 of Improv Yak, Carla sits down with her friend Dwayne Colbert for a conversation about directing improvisers. They also discuss auditioning for a Nerdist House Team, diversity in the Los Angeles comedy scene, and then Carla goes blue in their improv scene (these things happen sometimes).]]>57:28no#10_Janet Varney_Vulnerability_Improv YakWed, 18 Nov 2015 17:46:11 +0000In Episode 10 of Improv Yak, Janet Varney discusses vulnerability in improv and the ins and outs of producing the San Francisco Sketchfest. ]]>In Episode 10 of Improv Yak, Janet Varney discusses vulnerability in improv and the ins and outs of producing the San Francisco Sketchfest. ]]>01:08:24no#9_Megan Gray_Having Fun_Improv YakWed, 11 Nov 2015 16:11:01 +0000When Carla was recently in New York City, she sat down to yak with the Artistic Director of Magnet Theater, Megan Gray. They yak'd about the importance of having fun in improvisation and improvised a scene featuring a couple of film geeks.]]>When Carla was recently in New York City, she sat down to yak with the Artistic Director of Magnet Theater, Megan Gray. They yak'd about the importance of having fun in improvisation and improvised a scene featuring a couple of film geeks.]]>53:03no#8 Mark Gagliardi_Acting in Improv_Improv YakMon, 09 Nov 2015 16:39:46 +0000Carla sits down with her buddy Mark Gagliardi to discuss how he applies his training as an actor to improvisation.]]>Carla sits down with her buddy Mark Gagliardi to discuss how he applies his training as an actor to improvisation.]]>01:00:04no#7_Amy Phillips_Characters & Impressions_Improv YakWed, 04 Nov 2015 17:34:11 +0000In Episode 7, Carla speaks to LA comedian and actress Amy Phillips about using improv to create characters and generate content for the web.]]>In Episode 7, Carla speaks to LA comedian and actress Amy Phillips about using improv to create characters and generate content for the web.]]>57:10no#6_Craig Cackowski_Specificity_Improv YakMon, 02 Nov 2015 16:46:32 +0000Carla discusses specificity in improvisation with improviser and improv teacher, Craig Cackowski. ]]>Carla discusses specificity in improvisation with improviser and improv teacher, Craig Cackowski. ]]>47:17no#5_Todd Cooper_Blocks_Improv YakWed, 28 Oct 2015 05:21:27 +0000Carla speaks to Todd Cooper, a newer improviser in the Los Angeles scene, about the blocks he has been feeling as he navigates the techniques he has learned over the last year.]]>Carla speaks to Todd Cooper, a newer improviser in the Los Angeles scene, about the blocks he has been feeling as he navigates the techniques he has learned over the last year.]]>01:12:23no#4_James Mastraieni_Straight Man_Improv YakTue, 27 Oct 2015 15:42:10 +0000In the fourth episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with improviser James Mastraieni about his philosophy on the role of “straight man” in a comedic scene.]]>In the fourth episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with improviser James Mastraieni about his philosophy on the role of “straight man” in a comedic scene.]]>01:06:57no#3_Jean Villepique_Emotion_Improv YakSun, 25 Oct 2015 23:23:04 +0000In the third episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Jean Villepique about her use of emotion when performing improv comedy.]]>In the third episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Jean Villepique about her use of emotion when performing improv comedy.]]>58:06nocomedy,improv,improvisation,chat,conversation#2_Drew Droege_Commitment_Improv YakSun, 25 Oct 2015 23:21:07 +0000In the second episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Drew Droege about commitment in improvisation and how he applies it in his work as a performer.]]>In the second episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Drew Droege about commitment in improvisation and how he applies it in his work as a performer.]]>54:49nocomedy,improv,improvisation,chat,conversation#1_Amanda Blake Davis_Point of View_Improv YakSun, 25 Oct 2015 23:18:08 +0000In the first episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Amanda Blake Davis about character point of view and how she applies it when improvising.]]>In the first episode of Improv Yak, Carla chats with Amanda Blake Davis about character point of view and how she applies it when improvising.]]>53:14nocomedy,improv,improvisation,chat,conversation